Author(s): Jeffe M. Mabazza, Dominga M. Calaowa, Aries O. Suyong, Diwanie A. Angbao, Arlyn D. Igana

Abstract: This study examines the awareness and engagement of private senior high school students in Tabuk City, Kalinga, regarding local community activities. Findings reveal that students are highly aware (TAWM = 3.881) and engaged (TAWM = 4.011), particularly in culturally significant events such as Barangay Fiestas and environmental campaigns. Awareness and engagement are consistently high across sex, school affiliation, and academic strand, with only minor variations linked to program orientation and resource availability. Female students demonstrate slightly higher levels of participation, though differences are not statistically significant. Key factors moderately affecting engagement include limited access to resources, balancing academic and community commitments, and insufficient invitations to participate—challenges that are systemic rather than group-specific. Peer influence, institutional support, and motivation are crucial in fostering participation, while logistical and cultural barriers persist for some students. The study highlights the importance of strong cultural traditions, effective communication, and supportive school environments in promoting youth involvement, and calls for targeted interventions to address persistent barriers, ensuring equitable and meaningful participation for all students in community initiatives.

Keywords: awareness, private senior high school students, local community activities, level of engagement, factors

Article Info: Received: 16 May 2025; Received in revised form: 10 Jun 2025; Accepted: 14 Jun 2025; Available online: 20 Jun 2025

DOI: 10.22161/ijels.103.94